Sparrowhawk caught in illegal trap found in 'unnecessary pain'

A protected bird of prey has been euthanised by an animal charity after becoming caught in an illegal trap near Inverness.

The sparrowhawk was found on 4 April near Fairy Glen Nature Reserve in Fortrose with a leg caught in the trap.

The Scottish SPCA, which put down the bird, said it was a "a very concerning case and a serious wildlife offence".

Wildlife officers are appealing for information and investigations are ongoing to establish the full circumstances.

Sparrowhawks are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act.

Wildlife crime officer Det Con Daniel Crilley said the bird was found in an illegal Fenn trap.

He said: "Fenn traps are legal only when set in a natural or artificial tunnel that is designed to minimise the risk of harming non target species, however this trap was not, making it an illegal trap."

The Scottish SPCA said: "The bird was found in extreme and unnecessary pain.

"The trap had caused a catastrophic leg-break injury and sadly resulted in the bird having to be put to sleep.

A RSPB spokesperson said: "We welcome the swift action of the Scottish SPCA in responding and trying to help save this bird."